“National statistics show that when a state chooses to become a ‘shall issue’ state, violent crime goes down,” Senator Cardinale said. “Blocking the Governor’s proposed regulations will discourage victims facing serious threats from applying for the permits they desperately need while allowing criminals to continue operating knowing that their victims won’t be able to defend themselves.”

“My Democratic colleagues need to understand that our strict gun laws do nothing to protect victims like Carol Bowne,” Senator Cardinale said. “The justifiable need requirement makes it is virtually impossible for normal people in this state to get a permit to carry a firearm. When a government denies its citizens’ right to defend themselves, it’s putting the protection of criminals and terrorists ahead of the protection of victims.”